Plunkett adds to Yorkshire's options

Yorkshire have continued to add to their bowling resources following their Championship promotion with the signing of Liam Plunkett from Durham.

Plunkett, 27, only played one Championship match during the 2012 season as he suffered an Achilles injury and that followed a lean 2011 campaign which brought 11 wickets at 38.90.

"I have had 12 very happy years at the club and wish to thank the supporters, staff and my playing colleagues for the support they have shown me over that time," he said. "At this stage of my career, I believe that a fresh challenge would benefit me and I feel this is required to help me reach my goal of representing my country again."

Plunkett has played nine Tests, 29 one-day internationals and one Twenty20 for England. His most recent appearance came in Perth in February 2011 after he had flown around the world from the Caribbean where he was on a Lions tour to join an injury-hit squad for a single match. His last Test was against West Indies, at Old Trafford, in 2007.

"I have been fortunate enough to represent my country as recently as last year and there is no doubt I want to pull on an England shirt again," he said. "I strongly believe I have what it takes to play at the highest level again and I feel Yorkshire is the best environment to help me achieve this."

Plunkett's move also sees him reunited with Martyn Moxon, Yorkshire's director of cricket, who was the Durham coach when Plunkett made his county debut

"I know Liam well from my time in Durham," Moxon said. "He is a wholehearted cricketer with considerable talent and brings experience and quality to the Yorkshire side as we head back to the Division One. He has what it takes to regain a place in the England side. He is still only 27 and I'm sure Yorkshire can further assist his development and help him achieve his ambitions within the game. I look forward to working with him again."

Plunkett is the second significant pace-bowling signing Yorkshire have made since the end of the season following Jack Brooks' move from Northamptonshire.